$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Alaska Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Alaska
SSDI in Alaska - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Alaska - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Alaska as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Alaska?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. Alaska also expanded Medicaid, so many low-income disabled adults can be covered while they wait out that period.
How long does SSDI take in Alaska?
Alaska processes initial claims through its Disability Determination Service. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Alaska - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Alaska - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Alaska, SSI recipients can also receive Adult Public Assistance, a state cash supplement on top of the federal payment.
FEDERAL MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026, before any Alaska state supplement
SSA, 2026
ALASKA STATE SUPPLEMENT
Up to $1,276/mo
The maximum Adult Public Assistance payment Alaska adds on top of SSI for a single person, paid by the state
Alaska DOH DPA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
- Alaska residents, who may also qualify for the state Adult Public Assistance supplement
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does Alaska add to my SSI payment?
Yes. Alaska runs a state program called Adult Public Assistance (APA) that supplements SSI for aged, blind, and disabled residents. A single person can receive up to $1,276 per month in APA on top of their federal SSI, and being on APA also confers Medicaid.
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Alaska?
Yes. In Alaska, receiving Adult Public Assistance (which goes with SSI eligibility for aged, blind, and disabled residents) confers Medicaid. Alaska is also a Medicaid expansion state, so coverage for low-income adults is broad.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Alaska
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Alaska
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first. Alaska has one of the highest per-capita veteran populations in the country.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
ALASKA PROPERTY-TAX BREAK
First $150,000
Assessed value exempt from local property tax for veterans rated 50% or more service-connected disabled
Alaska Statute 29.45.030, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Alaska offer any extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Alaska law exempts the first $150,000 of assessed value on a primary residence from local property tax for veterans rated 50 percent or more service-connected disabled, and the Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs can help you file. This is separate from your federal VA compensation.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Alaska
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Alaska
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Alaska?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. This matters in Alaska, where distances are long and specialists can be far from home. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income, and Alaska has expanded it to cover more low-income adults. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
What's the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is the federal program directly. Medicare Advantage bundles everything through a private insurer and often includes dental, vision, and extras, though plan choices can be more limited in rural Alaska. Turnout can help you compare the right option for your situation.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Alaska
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Alaska
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
AN IEP IS
Legally binding
The school must deliver every service written in the plan, by law
IDEA
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Alaska public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Alaska?
Alaska schools generally must complete the initial evaluation within 60 calendar days of getting your written consent, then hold the meeting to develop the IEP within 30 calendar days of deciding the child is eligible.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Alaska
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Alaska residents.
Medicaid in Alaska
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Alaska residents.
Alaska Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Alaska expanded Medicaid in 2015, so low-income adults under 65 can qualify on income alone, without needing to be a parent or have a disability. It is run by the Alaska Department of Health, Division of Public Assistance.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
1 in 3
About one in three Alaskans are enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP
Alaska DOH, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Adults under 65 qualify up to 138 percent of the Alaska poverty level, roughly $2,163/mo for one person, with no asset test
Alaska DOH / healthinsurance.org, 2026
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
Alaska DOH, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults ages 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the Alaska federal poverty level, with no asset test
- Children up to age 18 in households up to about 208% of the Alaska poverty level (through Denali KidCare)
- Pregnant women up to about 230% of the Alaska poverty level
- Adults 65 and older, blind, or with a qualifying disability, and SSI/APA recipients who are automatically enrolled
How to apply
Apply online through the Alaska Connect portal or at HealthCare.gov, which screens for both Medicaid and Marketplace coverage in one application. You can also apply by mail or at a local Division of Public Assistance office, or call 1-800-478-7778. Have proof of income, identity, and Alaska residency ready. Standard decisions arrive within 30 to 45 days, longer if a disability determination is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Alaska?
The adult program keeps the name Medicaid, run by the Alaska Department of Health. Alaska's children's coverage (CHIP) is branded Denali KidCare. It's the same federal program with the same core benefits.
Did Alaska expand Medicaid?
Yes. Alaska expanded Medicaid in September 2015, so adults under 65 can qualify based on income alone, up to 138 percent of the Alaska poverty level, without needing children or a disability.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Alaska
Monthly grocery benefits on an Alaska Quest EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Alaska
Monthly grocery benefits on an Alaska Quest EBT card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP helps qualifying Alaska households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto the Alaska Quest EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores and online at retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Alaska is the only state with three benefit zones (Urban, Rural 1, Rural 2), so both income limits and benefit amounts are higher than the rest of the country to reflect the state's high food costs. The program is run by the Alaska Division of Public Assistance.
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$1,285 to $1,995/mo
Maximum monthly SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026, depending on your Alaska benefit zone (Urban to Rural 2)
USDA FNS FY2026 COLA memo
GROSS INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
Alaska's broad-based categorical eligibility raises the gross income limit to 200 percent of the Alaska poverty level, well above the federal 130 percent
Alaska DPA, 2026
HOW FAST APPROVAL HAPPENS
7 days
Expedited benefits for households with very low income or urgent need; standard processing up to 30 days
Alaska DPA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Alaska households with gross income at or below 200% of the Alaska poverty level under broad-based categorical eligibility
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Alaska
- Most adults age 16 to 59 must meet work requirements unless exempt
- Households with a member 60 or older or with a disability follow simpler income rules
How to apply
Apply online through the Alaska Connect portal, or download a paper application and submit it to your local Division of Public Assistance office by mail or fax. An interview is required but can be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need. Your Alaska Quest card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 days of approval.
Frequently asked questions
Why are Alaska SNAP benefits higher than other states?
Because food costs more in Alaska, especially in rural areas. Alaska is the only state with three benefit zones (Urban, Rural 1, Rural 2). A family of four can receive from $1,285 up to $1,995 a month depending on where they live.
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Alaska?
Yes. Alaska's gross income limit is 200 percent of the poverty level, much higher than most states, so many working households qualify once deductions for rent, utilities, and childcare are applied.
Can I use my Alaska Quest card online or for subsistence supplies?
Yes. The Alaska Quest card is accepted at most grocery stores and online at Amazon and Walmart. Alaska has special rules that also allow benefits to be used for certain hunting and fishing subsistence supplies.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Alaska
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Alaska
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid, SNAP, or Alaska Temporary Assistance usually qualifies you automatically. Alaska loads benefits onto an eWIC card.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
ON MEDICAID OR SNAP?
Auto-eligible
Being on Medicaid, SNAP, Denali KidCare, or Alaska Temporary Assistance automatically meets WIC's income test
Alaska DOH WIC
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, Denali KidCare, or Alaska Temporary Assistance are automatically income-eligible
- Alaska residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Find your nearest WIC clinic through the Alaska DOH WIC page and call to schedule an appointment. Bring ID for each family member applying, proof of Alaska residency, and proof of income or proof of Medicaid, SNAP, Denali KidCare, or Alaska Temporary Assistance enrollment. If approved, you receive your Alaska eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Alaska's food list and loaded onto your eWIC card.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limits are higher than people expect, and being on Medicaid, SNAP, or Alaska Temporary Assistance usually qualifies you automatically.
Does WIC cover baby formula?
Yes. WIC provides infant formula for babies who need it, and it also supports breastfeeding with counseling and ongoing help.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Alaska
Assistance that helps cover your home heating bills through the long Alaska winter.
LIHEAP in Alaska
Assistance that helps cover your home heating bills through the long Alaska winter.
Alaska's Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households pay their home heating costs, with payments made toward your heating provider. It is federally funded and run by the Alaska Department of Health, Division of Public Assistance. Heating help matters in Alaska more than almost anywhere, where winters are long and fuel is expensive. Applications are accepted each season from October 1 through April 30.
INCOME LIMIT
150% FPL
Households at or below 150 percent of the Alaska poverty guidelines can qualify for heating help
Alaska DOH DPA, 2026
BENEFIT RANGE
$350 to $6,125
The FY2026 heating benefit runs from a $350 minimum to a $6,125 maximum, set on a point system by region, heat type, dwelling, household size, and income
LIHEAP Clearinghouse (ACF) Alaska FY2026 profile
HEATING COST FLOOR
Over $200/yr
Your annual home heating costs must exceed $200 to qualify for assistance
Alaska DOH DPA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Alaska households with income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines
- Renters and homeowners with annual home heating costs over $200
- Priority for households with a member 60 or older, disabled, or a child under 6, who receive an extra benefit point
- Households on SNAP, Alaska Temporary Assistance, or SSI-related aid may qualify more easily
How to apply
Apply through the Alaska Division of Public Assistance during the heating season, October 1 through April 30. You can apply online through Alaska Connect or at a local DPA office. Bring a current heating bill, photo ID for household members, and proof of income. If you face a heating emergency, call Alaska 2-1-1 to connect with local energy assistance and community resources.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for LIHEAP?
Alaska uses a 150 percent federal poverty guideline income limit, and the Alaska poverty level is higher than the lower 48. If you are close, apply anyway, since deductions and household factors affect the result.
When can I apply for heating help in Alaska?
The Heating Assistance Program runs on a season. Applications are accepted from October 1 through April 30 each year. Apply early, since processing takes time and the coldest months come fast.
Can renters apply, or only homeowners?
Both renters and homeowners can apply, as long as your annual home heating costs exceed $200. If heat is included in your rent, the Division of Public Assistance can confirm how the benefit applies.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Alaska
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Alaskans.
ACA Subsidies in Alaska
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Alaskans.
ACA subsidies are federal tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace. Alaska uses the federal marketplace rather than running its own. Because Alaska expanded Medicaid, adults below 138 percent of the poverty level are generally routed to Medicaid, while those above it can shop for subsidized Marketplace plans.
WHO QUALIFIES FOR SUBSIDIES
Most enrollees
The large majority of Alaska Marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
CMS, 2026
MARKETPLACE USED
HealthCare.gov
Alaska uses the federal Marketplace rather than a state-run exchange
HealthCare.gov, 2026
WHEN TO ENROLL
Nov 1 -- Jan 15
Open enrollment for 2027 coverage. Special enrollment available year-round for qualifying life events
HealthCare.gov
Who qualifies
- Alaskans without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning above 138% of the poverty level, where Medicaid generally ends
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Alaska
How to apply
Apply online at HealthCare.gov. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and available plans, then compare by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment (Nov 1 to Jan 15) or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local enrollment help is available.
Frequently asked questions
Does Alaska run its own health insurance marketplace?
No. Alaska uses the federal Marketplace at HealthCare.gov rather than a state-run exchange like Covered California or Pennie. You apply at HealthCare.gov for both subsidies and plan selection.
What if my income is too low for ACA subsidies?
Apply anyway. HealthCare.gov screens for Alaska Medicaid. Because Alaska expanded Medicaid, adults below 138 percent of the poverty level are generally covered by Medicaid rather than falling into a coverage gap.
How much can I save with subsidies?
It depends on your income, household size, and plan. Most Alaska enrollees receive subsidies, applied automatically when you enroll through HealthCare.gov.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Alaska (Alaska Temporary Assistance Program)
Monthly cash and work support for families with children.
TANF in Alaska (Alaska Temporary Assistance Program)
Monthly cash and work support for families with children.
The Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) is Alaska's version of TANF. It provides time-limited cash to families with children who have very limited income, along with work and job-training support. The amount depends on family size, income, and shelter costs. It is run by the Alaska Department of Health, Division of Public Assistance, and comes with a federal 60-month lifetime limit and a Work First requirement.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$923/mo
The maximum cash benefit for a family with two children (family of three). Smaller families get less; the max for a family with one child is $821. (This is the benefit paid, not the income limit.)
Alaska DOH DPA Program Descriptions, 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
60 months
The federal lifetime cap on cash assistance for adults. Alaska does not add a shorter state limit
Alaska DOH DPA, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
$2,040/mo net
A family with two children must have net countable income below $2,040/mo to qualify (the limit, which is higher than the benefit paid)
Alaska DOH DPA Program Descriptions, 2026
Who qualifies
- Alaska residents responsible for a dependent child under 18
- Families with countable income below the ATAP limit for their family size
- Countable resources under $2,000, or $3,000 if the family includes someone 60 or older
- Adults must participate in Work First activities unless deferred
How to apply
Apply online through the Alaska Connect portal, or download an application and submit it to your local Division of Public Assistance office. A caseworker will schedule an interview to determine eligibility. Applying also screens you for SNAP. If approved, benefits are loaded onto an EBT card.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Alaska Temporary Assistance and TANF?
They are the same thing. ATAP is Alaska's name for the federal TANF program, run by the Alaska Division of Public Assistance under the TANF block grant.
How long can I receive Alaska Temporary Assistance?
A federal 60-month lifetime cap applies to adults. Alaska uses a Work First approach, so adults are expected to seek work or join job-training activities within the program.
Can I receive Alaska Temporary Assistance and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. ATAP families are generally categorically eligible for SNAP, and applying through the Division of Public Assistance screens you for both at once.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Alaska (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Alaska (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. It is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. The amount depends on your income and family size, and you have to file a federal return to claim it. Alaska has no state income tax and no state EITC, so the federal credit is what applies.
WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
OWE NO TAX?
Still get cash back
The EITC is refundable, so you receive the full amount as a refund even if you owe nothing
IRS
COMMONLY MISSED
1 in 5 skip it
About 1 in 5 eligible workers don't claim the EITC, often just because they don't file a return
IRS
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- And more, including limits on investment income
How to apply
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file. Claim it for the year you qualified, and you can still file for past years you missed. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers. Alaska has no state income tax and no state EITC, so there is nothing extra to file at the state level.
Frequently asked questions
Does Alaska have its own state EITC?
No. Alaska has no state income tax and does not offer a state earned income tax credit. Only the federal EITC is available to Alaska workers.
Can I get EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can still qualify for a smaller credit, and having children increases the amount.
Will getting EITC or my PFD affect my other benefits?
Generally no for the EITC, which isn't counted as income for programs like SNAP or Medicaid. The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend has its own special rules for benefit programs, so check how it is treated for each program you receive.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Alaska
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Alaska
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Alaska families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Alaska has no state income tax and no separate state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Does Alaska have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. Alaska has no state income tax and no state-level Child Tax Credit. The federal credit is fully available to Alaska residents, with no additional state supplement on top of it.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Alaska
Subsidized child care for working Alaska families.
Child Care Assistance in Alaska
Subsidized child care for working Alaska families.
Alaska's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and run by the Alaska Department of Health. The subsidy is paid to your child care provider on a sliding fee scale, with families paying a share based on income.
INCOME LIMIT
85% state median
Families must not exceed 85 percent of the Alaska state median income, adjusted for family size
Alaska DOH DPA Program Descriptions, 2026
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-pay based on income and family size; lower-income families pay little to nothing
Alaska DOH DPA, 2026
CHILD AGE LIMIT
Under 13
Children must be under age 13 (or older with a qualifying need) and living with an eligible parent
Alaska DOH DPA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Alaska families with a child under 13, or older with a qualifying need
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in a job-training program
- Households at or below 85% of the Alaska state median income for their family size
- Child is a U.S. citizen, national, or qualified alien
How to apply
Apply through the Alaska Department of Health Child Care Assistance Program, or contact your regional child care resource office listed on the DOH site. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. The subsidy is paid directly to your chosen child care provider.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my own child care provider?
Yes. You can choose from providers approved to participate, including licensed centers and licensed family child care homes. The subsidy is paid to your provider on your behalf.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale co-pay applies based on your income and family size. Lower-income families may pay little to nothing, while families near the income limit pay a larger share.
What is the income limit for child care help in Alaska?
Alaska sets the limit at 85 percent of the state median income, adjusted for family size. This is Alaska's actual operating threshold, which is on the higher end because the state uses the full federal ceiling.
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